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Assessing electrocardiogram abnormalities in paediatric athletes: a retrospective study on incidence and implications
Arkadeep Ghosh1, Lindsey Malloy-Walton2, Ashley K Sherman3
1University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, USA.
Cardiology in the Young
|March 25, 2026
Summary
Electrocardiogram screening in young athletes revealed 18.5% had abnormalities, but further evaluation showed no significant cardiac issues. Universal electrocardiogram screening for healthy pediatric athletes is not beneficial.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Preventive Cardiology
Background:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) screening is debated for asymptomatic pediatric athletes.
- Understanding ECG abnormalities in this population is crucial for guiding screening protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and types of ECG abnormalities in healthy, young male competitive soccer players.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with ECG abnormalities.
- To evaluate the clinical significance of identified ECG abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study of 182 male youth soccer players (ages 11-18) from a single center.
- Review of 368 electrocardiograms performed between 2021-2024.
- Analysis of covariables including age, race, family history, and medications.
Main Results:
- 18.5% (68/368) of athletes exhibited at least one ECG abnormality.
- Multi-racial and African American athletes showed a higher proportion of abnormalities (p=0.02).
- No significant cardiac findings were detected upon further evaluation of athletes with abnormal ECGs.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of ECG abnormalities in this cohort is comparable to existing literature.
- Universal ECG screening in healthy pediatric athletes did not yield significant cardiac findings and may not be beneficial.
- Further cardiac evaluation after initial ECG screening is essential to rule out significant pathology.
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